The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) installed a new transformer in Njarange, Mbeere North, Embu County, at night, following public outcry over the alleged removal of the previous transformer.
In a statement on July 9, the utility company said its Embu County technical team carried out the installation overnight to replace a vandalized transformer.
“Our Embu County technical team is installing a new transformer at Njarange, Mbeere North, to replace a unit that was vandalized last Sunday,” read part of the statement.
KPLC Moves to Restore Electricity in Mbeere North
KPLC added that the new transformer is expected to restore reliable electricity to customers affected by the vandalism and thanked residents for their patience and cooperation as the works were being completed.
The installation follows concerns from residents of Mbeere North after several transformers installed during the 2025 by-election under the Last Mile Connectivity Programme were removed from the area.
Residents further alleged that the removed transformers were being taken to Ol-Kalou as a campaign mechanism ahead of the July 17 by-elections.
Some residents took to social media to demand the return of the transformers, alleging that they had been installed as part of efforts to win support for UDA candidate Leo Wa Muthende during the Mbeere North by-election.
One resident, identified as Tabs, said: “They were taken away for maintenance, yet they hadn’t even been in use for a year. They were installed just for the campaign.”
Also Read: Exposed: Dirty Tactics Used in Malava, Mbeere North By-Elections
Why Transformers Were Removed
Kenya Power issued the clarification on Thursday, July 9, following public concerns over the removal of transformers in parts of Mbeere North.
It dismissed claims that transformers in Mbeere North, Embu County, were removed for non-technical reasons, saying the equipment was removed as part of routine maintenance to improve the reliability of the electricity supply.
The utility company said transformers are routinely removed when they develop technical faults that cannot be repaired on site, including water ingress and other defects.
Also Read: Kenya Power Explains Why Some Customers Are Receiving Fewer Electricity Tokens
According to Kenya Power, such units are taken to specialised workshops for repairs, testing and controlled heat drying to eliminate moisture before they are returned for installation.
The company said the preventive maintenance programme has helped reduce transformer failures across the country over the past three years and remains a key part of its asset management strategy.
KPLC revealed that between May and June 2026, it removed 15 transformers from Mbeere North for routine maintenance.
It said 14 of the transformers have since been repaired and reinstalled, while the remaining unit was vandalised last week and was scheduled for replacement on Friday.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
